iPage vs. HostGator

iPage and HostGator are considered two of the top web hosting providers in the industry. In this side-by-side comparison we take a look at the similarities and differences in HostGator versus iPage. Keep reading to see which of these web hosts have the web hosting products and services you are looking for.

One of the best things about both of these web hosts is no matter what size or type of web hosting you need, chances are HostGator and iPage are likely to have it. The question is, which web host has the product that is just right for you?

Shared hosting is the cheapest web hosting option. iPage chooses to focus on one web hosting package (the Essential Plan) that includes everything you would possibly need to create a personal to small business website, with the exception of a dedicated IP and a private SSL (which may be added). Whereas, HostGator offers 3 shared hosting plans – Hatchling, Baby, and Business plan. While all of their plans include all of the basics as well, the hatchling plan does not allow for SSL or dedicated IP and only allows 1 domain. The HostGator Baby plan is much more comparable to the iPage Essential Plan with the option to add an SSL certificate or dedicated IP. The HostGator Business plan includes all these extra items as well as a toll-free telephone number, but is a bit more expensive than all the others.

Virtual Private Server (VPS) hosting is the next step up in hosting when your website is requiring more space, speed, or security. The iPage VPS hosting is available in 3 options – Basic, Business, and Optimum. While HostGator has VPS plans named Level 1 to Level 9. Obviously the HostGator plans are going to have more incremental options, but are they really necessary? All 3 of the iPage plans are priced at a much lower rate for comparable HostGator VPS plans. However, with so many different plan levels through HostGator they have VPS plans with smaller amounts of CPU, RAM, Disk Space, and bandwidth; as well as VPS plans with much greater amounts. All VPS plans with iPage and HostGator are flexible, scalable, and have full root access.

Dedicated Servers provide businesses with the best security, control, and speed. Once again, iPage takes the cake when it comes to the pricing difference between iPage and HostGator dedicated servers. However, they also only offer 3 dedicated server plans – Startup, Professional,and Enterprise – which are only available with the CentOs (Linux) operating system. While HostGator has 4 Linux dedicated server plans and 4 Windows dedicated server plans – Basic, Standard, Elite, and Pro. The iPage and HostGator dedicated server plans are much more comparable in terms of hardware and software, but iPage is still a less expensive option.

Web Hosting Prices
When it comes to web host pricing both iPage and HostGator are among the cheapest web hosts in the market. Both of these web hosts offer their lowest pricing when customers are willing to pay for 36 months of hosting upfront. However, iPage offers their lowest pricing with a 24 month commitment as well, where HostGator does not. When it comes to getting the best price on web hosting it is always best to pay upfront for the longest term available, even if you decide to cancel early. It is also important to understand upfront what prices you will be paying upon renewal at the end of your contract. Many web hosting companies offer extreme discounts for new customers but have exorbitant renewal pricing. Neither of these web hosts have extreme increases upon renewal, but expect to pay higher than the initial signup rate. The good news is both of these hosts offer a money back guarantee. HostGator offers their customers a 45 day money back guarantee, which is plenty long enough to know whether you are going to be happy with their hosting services. iPage on the other hand, offers an ANYTIME money back guarantee. Naturally there are terms and conditions with both, but overall you are not going to be out much if you are not happy with their service.

Customer Service

When it comes to comparing HostGator vs. iPage in terms of customer service both provide a great selection of help services. Both have a great knowledgebase for those who like to research things for themselves, as well as numerous tutorials. HostGator also has a number of forums where customers can do research or ask questions. iPage and HostGator customers have the option submitting a “ticket” through their control panel, which is basically using an email program to get answers. Both also offer live 24×7 customer support via live chat or a toll-free telephone service.